Next conference January 10-14, 2011. J-Sekka Resort Hirafu Village
Why is Japan one of the hottest ski destinations in the world today and an ideal location for the Wanaka Conference Road Trip?
It’s a short flight from Australia, New Zealand and North America.
Seemingly endless powder runs.
It offers a kaleidoscope of incredible cultural experiences.
Fantastic food.
Superb facilities.
The best Japanese skiing is in the Chubu Sangaku (Japanese Alps) located on Japans northern most island of Hokkaido. Niseko is the ski resort area and was the location of the 2nd Wanaka Conference Road Trip. Traditionally Niseko experiences snowfalls in excess of 16m per season and the snow is very dry. All this adds up to some of the best powder conditions anywhere in the world.
Niseko is made up of 4 interlinked first-class resorts including Annapuri, Hirafu, Higashiyama and Hanazono. They offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all levels. There are 40km of ski trails with the longest run of 5.7km and an average snow depth of 4m. Runs are 30% green, 44% blue and 26% black. The nearest city is Sapporo which is a 2 hour drive away. Alternatives to skiing include:
Cross country skiing
Snow mobiles
Snow rafting
Ice climbing
Relaxing in onsens (natural hot springs)
Eating sushi and drinking saki
As usual the conference will involve entertaining presentations and workshops given by a variety of specialists who are leaders in their respective fields. There is self directed learning time with course materials from 0700-0900 and formal presentations run from 1730-1930.
Social activities will include:
Apres ski drinks and refreshments at the J-Sekka Restaurant from 5-5.30.
Welcome wine and cheese on the Sunday night.
Wednesday night party at a penthouse spa apartment
Farewell buffet dinner at the amazing Mongolian Yurt restaurant on Friday night.
Niseko
Why is Japan one of the hottest ski destinations in the world today and an ideal location for the Wanaka Conference Road Trip?